Make space for others [58:11]

Here is today's reflection from the Quran:

In Sura Mujadilah (58:11), the Quran says: O you who believe! When you are told to make room in the assemblies (spread out and) make room: (Ample) room will Allah provide for you.

The Arabic word 'fasaha' which is used in this verse means widening, or making space. It can also be translated as amplifying or expanding.

This immensely practical verse from the Quran talks about the etiquette and adab of sitting in gatherings and it is so applicable these days when we are frequently gathering for the month of Ramadan. It is asking people to move and make space for others as they join the gathering.

When the Holy Prophet (saw) used to conduct assemblies, his followers would throng around him in their eagerness to get close and hear better what he had to sav. This meant that the weaker or more reticent of the people may have been crowded out and inconvenienced due to the enthusiasm of the others.

This simple command contains such a powerful message: that we need to be mindful of others in public spaces, and provide equitable opportunities for access.

The verse also speaks to the human need to belong. When one enters a gathering where others are already sitting, the simple act of another in offering a welcoming smile and a space to sit will immediately make a person feel welcome and included amongst the gathering.

Scholars explain that the wider meaning of this verse applies to the totality of our social life and "making room for one another" implies the mutual providing of opportunities for a decent life to all - and especially to the needy or handicapped - members of the community.

Sometimes we fall prey to the mentality which leads us to believe that if we provide someone with opportunity or access, it will be at the cost of this for ourselves. That giving up a prized and comfortable spot in the gathering will result in our being physically or socially uncomfortable. Here we are reminded that His laws and the Universe operates on the principle of abundance, not scarcity.

The verse ends by saying that if you do this, Allah will provide for you. It is amazing how Allah (swt) encourages us by providing us with the ultimate motivation to do what is simple, fair and kind.

Scholars explain that "Allah will make room for you" could refer amplification and expansion of many things; increase in sustenance, broadening of thought and spirit, expansion of good things of the world, lengthening of life, and a larger place in Heaven.

If we make room for others, in our public spaces, our lives and our hearts, we are all enriched by this inclusion AND He will make room for us and will provide for us.